Support Center

Getting Started

How do I start tracking a ferment?

Tap the "Start New Brew" button and:

• Choose from preset brew types (Kombucha, Tepache, Kvas, Kimchi)
• Or create a custom brew type with your own phases
• Optionally backdate the start time if you've already begun
• Your timer starts automatically

How do I create a custom brew type?

When starting a new brew:

• Select "Custom" from the brew type selector
• Enter a name and choose an emoji icon
• Select a color theme
• Add multiple phases with names and durations
• Your custom type is saved for future use

What are phases?

Phases represent different stages of fermentation:

• Primary Fermentation: Initial active fermentation period
• Secondary Fermentation: Flavor development and carbonation
• Custom Phases: Any additional stages you need to track
• Each phase has its own timer and can have pH readings

Features

How do I advance to the next phase?

On each timer card:

• Tap "Next Phase" when ready to advance
• Optionally add a pH reading for the completed phase
• The timer automatically continues into the next phase
• All phase history is preserved

How do I track pH readings?

pH tracking is optional but useful for monitoring fermentation:

• When advancing phases, you can enter a pH value
• pH readings are saved with each phase in history
• View all pH readings in the finished brew history
• Use a pH meter or test strips for accurate readings

Can I track multiple ferments at once?

Yes! Fermento supports unlimited simultaneous timers:

• Each brew has its own independent timer
• Track different brew types at the same time
• All timers update in real-time
• Each can be in a different phase

Troubleshooting

My timer isn't showing the correct time

• Check that your device's date and time are correct
• If you backdated the start time, verify the date you entered
• Try closing and reopening the app
• Timers calculate from the start time you set

I accidentally deleted a timer

• Unfortunately, deleted active timers cannot be recovered
• All data is stored locally, so there's no cloud backup
• Consider finishing brews instead of deleting them to preserve history

Data isn't saving

• Data saves automatically every 60 seconds
• Check that your device has sufficient storage space
• Ensure the app has necessary permissions
• Try closing other apps to free up memory

Privacy & Data

Where is my data stored?

All data (timers, history, custom brew types) is stored locally on your device. We don't have any servers or backend systems—your fermentation data stays private and secure.

Can I backup my data?

The app automatically creates local backups every 60 seconds. For device-level backup, use your device's automatic backup through iCloud (iOS).

Fermentation Safety

• Always follow proper food safety practices
• Use clean, sanitized equipment
• Monitor for signs of contamination (mold, off odors, unusual colors)
• When in doubt, throw it out
• Consult expert sources for recipes and techniques
• pH alone does not guarantee safety

System Requirements

• iOS: iOS 16.0 or later (iPhone, iPad)
• Storage: Minimal storage required (all data stored locally)
• Internet: Not required (works completely offline)